CR450 - the new Chinese HSTs

On 29 December 2024, two prototypes of the new Class CR450 high-speed trains were unveiled in Beijing. As indicated by the number in the class designation, their design speed is 450 km/h (the top speed of 453 km/h was reached during tests). In regular service, they are expected to run at 400 km/h, which will be a world first.

The prototype eight-car units are more precisely designated the Class CR450AF and CR450BF and were built at CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles and CRRC Sifang works. Each version has a different exterior design, and there are also differences in the interior of the trains, although in both cases the emphasis is on passenger comfort. 

Further tests and possible modifications to the high-speed trains will now be carried out to ensure that they meet all the necessary standards. The aim is to put these units into regular service as soon as possible. The first route for the CR450 units will be Beijing - Shanghai, where the 1 318 km distance should in future be covered in just 3 h 20. Until now, the Class CRH380A, CR400AF and other CRH380A units have taken 4.5 h (at a top speed of 350 km/h).

CRRC states that despite its higher speed, the Class CR450 has braking efficiency similar to those of trains running at 350 km/h - a result of significant engineering advancements that ensure the train's stability, performance and safety at higher speeds. The CR450 also prioritizes passenger comfort, aiming to offer a smooth and quiet ride, even at 400 km/h. Advanced noise-reduction technologies ensure that the interior noise levels are comparable to those of the 350 km/h trains, providing a peaceful travel experience. A standout feature of the CR450 is its energy efficiency. The train's running resistance has been reduced by 22 % and its weight cut by 10 %. These optimizations help minimize energy consumption despite the increased speed.

Li Yongheng, an official of China State Railway Group, said that since 2012, China's railway sector has independently developed a series of products with scientific and technological innovation, represented by the Fuxing high-speed electric multiple unit trains, and has established a complete high-speed-rail technology system encompassing engineering construction, equipment manufacturing and operations management. "China's high-speed railway system has taken a historic leap, shifting from a follower to a global leader, and its HSR technology has set an international benchmark."

Noting the challenge of achieving a lightweight design, considering both speed and energy efficiency, Wang Wenjing, a professor at the School of Mechanical, Electronic and Control Engineering of Beijing Jiaotong University, said that the university's team focused on reducing the weight of the load-bearing components. "Advanced materials like carbon fiber were also incorporated to reduce weight while maintaining strength, thereby ensuring safety and durability at high speeds."

Sui Fusheng, a researcher at the Institute of Acoustics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, highlighted the complexity of balancing weight reduction with noise control. The team developed integrated composite materials that provide both thermal insulation and soundproofing. This innovation reduced material costs and complexity while improving passenger comfort by adjusting temperature and controlling noise. Despite the challenges, the team's solutions have set the stage for quieter, more efficient high-speed rail travel.